SEASON 1

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Welcome to The Modern Latino Podcast, with your hosts Gene and Ivan!

Our  goal is simple: have thoughtful conversations about the issues  impacting our lives, highlight individuals doing great things in their  communities, and finally, celebrate all of the beautiful cultures that  make-up the Latino diaspora. 

We do this by keeping an open mind, trying to learn something new, and always treating each other with respect.

On this episode we have a terrific conversation with our new friend, Carlos Acta.
Carlos  is a graduate of Columbia University where he majored in Political  Science and International Relations. He has worked as a US - UN  congressional Liaison organizing specialized briefings for Members of  Congress and UN officials.  A native son of the Bronx, he is the perfect  guest to help us kick-off our first episode.

We discuss the  situation currently happening in the Middle East and learn about the  historical events behind both sides of the war. This is a really complex  subject, but hopefully you will learn something new via this  discussion.

Want to learn more?
Books mentioned on this podcast include:

A History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict - Mark A. Tessler
From Beirut to Jerusalem - Tom Friedman
The Question of Palestine - Edward Said
The Case for Israel - Alan Dershowitz

Thank you for listening. Please subscribe for future episodes!

Contact us at: 
info@themodernlatino.com

  Welcome to The Modern Latino Podcast!

In this episode your hosts, Gene & Ivan, set the stage for what you can expect from this podcast. 

Our  goal is simple: have thoughtful conversations about the issues  impacting our lives, highlight individuals doing great things in their  communities, and finally, celebrate all of the beautiful cultures that  make-up the Latino diaspora. 

 We do this by keeping an open mind, trying to learn something new, and always treating each other with respect.

Please subscribe to the show and join us for the ride!

Reach out to us via: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

  In this episode we interview NYC based writer and comedian,  Miguel Fernandez.  Miguel has studied and performed sketch comedy and  improv over the past several years. Recently he has performed in groups  specializing in Improv en Espanol. We love supporting up and coming  artists and we think he is a rising star.

Miguel shares his story  with us and explains how his journey as a child of Colombian immigrant  parents led him on the path to pursue his dream of performing on stage.  We go over his experiences and discuss several themes like how his  family supported his dreams, the challenges that Latino comedians face,  the work that goes on behind the scenes, and how Social Media is  changing the promotion game.

Check out his upcoming show at the P.I.T. Loft in NYC on Jan 10, 2024 at 6pm.

You can find Miguel on Instagram: @miguelfromqueens

For more Modern Latino:

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

In this episode we speak with one of the hottest chefs in NYC  today, Derick Lopez, owner of The Freakin Rican restaurant in Astoria,  NY.

Featuring a menu of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, Chef  Derick delivers a culinary delight to anyone looking for some authentic  “Boricua” flavors. The food is delicious and the service and ambience deliver  an experience that you will remember and come back for more. However,  the food is just scratching the surface about what makes Chef Derick  special.

Derick shares his story with us and explains how the  challenges of growing up as a poor, gay man from the NYC projects helped  shape his work ethic leading to his success. He shares how his passion  for cooking came from his mother, and how it also manifested into his  calling to be an advocate for his Puerto Rican people.

This is  an episode that will inspire anyone who has ever had a dream and or  stumbled along the way (or for anyone who loves finding a delicious  meal). Derick is a great example of a Modern Latino and we hope you  enjoy this episode.

Make sure to visit The Freakin Rican in person or online:

The Freakin Rican
4306 34th Avenue
Queens, NY 11101
https://thefreakinricanrestaurant.com/

Find amazing recipes and more on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCust-AGsioC4ifkoxr1c2gA

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TheFreakinRicanRestaurant/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thefreakinricanrestaurant/

X:
https://twitter.com/freakinricanres

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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

THANK YOU for listening! 

You can find us via:

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

  In this episode:

Gene and Ivan sit down to catch up on what’s been going on lately, including:

·      The NYC earthquake and stories about the eclipse. 

·      Ivan shares his random thoughts about dinosaur evolution possibilities

·      Ivan shares his thoughts on Wrestlemania 40 and the new Latino Champions!

·      The guys talk about Haters and share their thoughts on overcoming adversity.

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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

THANK YOU for listening!

Find us at:

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

  In this episode we speak with our friend, Will. He is a  former police officer who now spends his time studying and investing in  Crypto currency. He helps explain the reasons he became involved with  this form of investing and explains the risks and rewards that can be  expected. We enjoyed learning about the Crypto market, as well as,  Will’s journey towards building generational wealth for his family.

This  is an important subject given the impact that Crypto has had on the  financial markets. Given that there are is such wide interest in this  from people young and old, we wanted to see what we can learn and  hopefully educate our audience a little more before they even consider  jumping into this world.

The Modern Latino podcast shares  only general information which does not constitute accounting, legal,  tax, investing or other professional advice. Listeners should not act  upon the content or information found here without first seeking  appropriate advice from an accountant, financial planner, lawyer or  other professional. The views shared in this episode are meant only to  educate and entertain our audience. 

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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

THANK YOU for listening!

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

  Tonight, we’re speaking with Officer Vickie Ojeda of the Nassau County Police Department. She is also the President of the NCPD’s  Hispanic Society. Vickie is a wonderful person who is extremely  passionate about her community. Raised in Queens, she is of Puerto Rican  and Mexican heritage. She shares how she grew up surrounded by friends  of all different backgrounds which helped shape the person she is today.

We  have a great conversation about the importance of recognizing and  celebrating where you come from, and the significance of understanding that while Latino’s share many things in common, we all still have our own unique cultures and traditions. We also spend some time reviewing the challenges we have within our own community. 

Vickie is a great example of the impact that a Latina woman can have in the field of Law Enforcement. Her origin story is not what you might expect it to be, but trust us when we say that you will be inspired by it. 

Her work with the NCPD Hispanic Society is a wonderful example of how she goes beyond the scope of her job to make a difference within her department and her local community. They work hard to produce events  like their Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala which has become recognized as the most diverse event the NCPD has. They also host a Prom Dress Event that collects new and gently used clothes that local High School students can wear to their Proms. On top of that they support a Mentor Program for young people interested in becoming Police Officers.

We hope you enjoy this episode!

For more information about the Nassau County Police Department Hispanic Society, visit their Instagram at: @NCPHispanicSociety

If you want to learn more about careers in Law Enforcement, email them at: NCPDHispanicSociety@gmail.com

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THANK YOU for listening!

Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.

   In this episode:

May 4th (Star Wars day) and it’s Puerto Rican connection

Cinco de Mayo

Knicks Playoff run

Ryan Garcia antics and current state of Boxing

Campus Protests – Schools & Universities must do better 

Where are the smart, well-intentioned people in Politics

Upstate NY District Attorney behavior over traffic stop

We hope you enjoy this episode!

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THANK YOU for listening!

Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.

In this episode we interview DJ Benny Bee. Benny has worked with legendary Freestyle  Music artists like Coro, Lissette Melendez, Tony Moran and more. He was  also a Producer on the hit track “Within My Heart” by Voyce. While now retired and living the good life in Florida, he hails from East New  York, Brooklyn. Benny shares his story with us and as learn how he made his way onto the blossoming NYC Freestyle circuit. 

 We discuss Freestyle music’s lasting endurance with fans all over the world still  lining up to attend concerts and performances. Benny even shares some  behind the scene stories. We also talk about upcoming artists that we  should be listening to now. 

 This is a must listen episode for every Freestyle music fan! 

 We hope you enjoy!

 Make sure to check Benny out via:

 TikTok – bennybee221

Instagram - @dj_benny_bee

Facebook – DJ Benny Bee

Mixcloud – Dj Benny Bee

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 THANK YOU for listening!

 Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.  

In this episode:

 “…the most dangerous thing you can do is not working out…” – Jethro Cardona

We interview Jethro Cardona, owner of the CrossFit Chief Nation gym in Massapequa, NY.

In addition to being a business owner, Jethro also serves the community as a Nassau County Police officer working with youth communities via the Police Activity League unit. Originally from Queens and Brooklyn, he shares how his Puerto Rican mother wanted him to have the best educational opportunities and eventually moved them to Long Island. It’s  there where he eventually became a police officer, got married and started a family.

We discuss how the pandemic helped him realize the need in our community for better physical fitness opportunities.  This led Jethro to becoming a fitness coach and eventually to his  official venture into the competitive world of the Fitness industry with  the launch of CrossFit Chief Nation. 

A truly inspirational conversation on so many levels. Jethro teaches us that if you have a dream that nothing can stand in your way of making it a reality.

We hope you enjoy!

For more information on Crossfit Chief Nation, check out:

Website - crossfitchiefnation.com

Instagram - @crossfitchiefnation

Facebook – crossfit.chief.nation

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THANK YOU for listening!

Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.

In this episode:
We interview Sacha Hamilton who is a mom, entrepreneur, cannabis enthusiast, and the creator of The Dope Deck card game. With the legalization of cannabis becoming more widespread and less taboo, Sacha wanted to create a game that allowed like-minded individuals to have fun and build relationships, all while safely getting their smoke on. Thus, The Dope Deck was born.

Now based in southern California, Sacha comes from a unique background and shares how her experiences living around the world in places like Saudi Arabia and Austria helped shape her outlook on life and drove her to ultimately become an entrepreneur.

We have a healthy discussion about the social stigmas that marijuana use is still known for. We also take time to share our own individual perspectives regarding marijuana use and how the consequences of regular usage can vary by economic class or racial groups.

It must be said that Sacha is absolutely hilarious, charming, smart, and we could go on. Her Main Character Energy is on full display throughout the conversation and we could have  easily continued our conversation into the wee hours of the night.

If you like to have fun with your friends, while smoking or not, you definitely will want to pick-up The Dope Deck and see where the fun takes you! Ask for it at your local smoke shop or check out the links below.

We hope you enjoy!

For more information on The Dope Deck, check out:

Website – TheDopeDeck.com

Instagram - @thedopedeck

Sacha’s Instagram - @qvergara_

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THANK YOU for listening!

Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com

Support the Show.

Web:
https://themodernlatino.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/

X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod

Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino

The  views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the  program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they  represent.